Leaving Germany can feel like closing an important chapter in your life. Whether you spent just a few years working there or a decade building your career, you likely contributed a sizable portion of your salary to the German pension system. But did you know that — under the right conditions — you can get some of that money back?
If you’re a non-EU citizen who’s no longer living in Germany or anywhere in the EU, there’s a good chance you’re eligible for a German pension refund. It’s a legal and legitimate way to reclaim part of your earnings. And if you’re wondering where to start, here’s how to get a German pension refund — broken down step by step.
Why the German Pension Refund Exists?
Germany’s pension system (Deutsche Rentenversicherung) is funded through mandatory contributions from both employees and employers. Every month, 18.6% of your gross salary was set aside for your retirement — half of it from your employer, and half (9.3%) directly from you.
While this system is great for residents who plan to retire in Germany or the EU, it may not benefit those who leave permanently and won’t draw on German pension benefits.
That’s why a refund mechanism exists — to allow certain individuals to reclaim their personal contributions when they won’t be using the system long-term.
This option isn’t available to everyone, and the rules can vary depending on your nationality, how long you worked in Germany, and where you live now.
Who Can Claim a German Pension Refund?
Let’s start with eligibility — this is where most people misunderstand the rules.
To claim a refund, you must meet all of the following criteria:
1. You are a non-EU/UK/EEA citizen
Only citizens from outside the EU, UK, and EEA are allowed to claim a refund. EU citizens remain bound by pension coordination rules across member states and are expected to draw their pensions within the EU system.
2. You currently live outside the EU
Even if you’re a non-EU citizen, living in the EU disqualifies you. You must have established residence in a non-EU country.
3. At least 24 months have passed since your last contribution
This waiting period is essential. The refund cannot be processed until two years have passed since your last pension contribution in Germany. It’s meant to ensure that you no longer have any pending obligations or benefits tied to the system.
4. You haven’t contributed more than 59 months (in some cases)
For certain nationalities (like India or the U.S.), if you’ve contributed for more than 59 months, you may no longer be eligible for a refund — even if you meet the other criteria. This is because, at 60 months, you become eligible for a future German retirement pension instead, and refunds are no longer granted for those contributions.
However, most nationalities around the world can still claim a refund even after crossing the 60-month mark. It all depends on Germany’s agreement with your home country.
How Much Money Can You Expect?
Your refund consists of your contributions only — not your employer’s. That’s 9.3% of your gross salary over the time you worked in Germany. Depending on how long you worked and your income level, this can range from a few hundred euros to several thousand.
For example, if you earned €6,000/month for three years in Germany, your refund could total nearly €20,000 (excluding currency conversion fluctuations).
Documents You’ll Need
Applying for a German pension refund requires some basic — but specific — paperwork:
- Passport or national ID
- Deregistration certificate (Abmeldebescheinigung) from your German city of residence
- Proof of residence in a non-EU country (e.g. utility bill, lease, or official letter)
- Employment records or payslips from your time in Germany
- German pension insurance number (if applicable)
It’s crucial that all documents are current and, if necessary, translated into German. Missing or unclear documents often lead to long delays.
How to Apply: A Step-by-Step Guide
Gather Your Documents
Get all required paperwork together, including certified translations if needed.
Complete the Application
You’ll need to fill out Form V0901 (available on the Deutsche Rentenversicherung website). This form requests detailed information about your identity, employment history, and residency status.
Submit the Application
Applications can be mailed directly to Deutsche Rentenversicherung or submitted through a certified pension refund service. If mailing yourself, expect to send originals or notarized copies.
Wait for Review
Processing usually takes 4–6 months. During this time, the pension office may contact you for additional information.
Receive Payment
If your application is successful, your refund will be transferred to your international bank account. Transfers can take up to 8 weeks after approval.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying too early: If the 24-month waiting period isn’t over, your application will be rejected.
- Living in the EU: Even if you’re a non-EU citizen, residing in an EU country disqualifies you.
- Exceeding 59 months (for some nationalities): This may trigger permanent pension rights, removing your eligibility for a refund.
- Missing documents: Incomplete applications slow everything down.
Should You Use a Service?
While it’s possible to apply for a refund yourself, many people choose to work with professionals who specialize in German pension refunds. Why?
- They know the system inside and out — including rules that even embassy websites get wrong.
- They can handle documents and translations, speeding up the process.
- They stay on top of communication with the pension office — often entirely in German.
A reliable service reduces your risk of mistakes and delays, and many only charge if your refund is approved.
Real Benefits: Financial and Emotional
Getting your pension refund isn’t just about the money. Yes, you might reclaim several thousand euros — but it’s also about closing the door on your time in Germany with peace of mind.
Maybe the refund helps you invest in a new venture at home, pay for education, or build financial security. Or maybe it’s simply about not leaving your hard-earned money behind.
Whatever the case, it’s yours — and you’re entitled to it.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve worked in Germany and moved away — and you meet the right criteria — reclaiming your pension contributions can be a smart move. The process takes time, but it’s straightforward if you’re organized and know what to expect.
You’ve already put in the work. Now it’s time to take back what belongs to you. Start your refund application today at https://www.germanypensionrefund.com/.
